Marta's LETU Blog

The Community That Prays Together...

2009-11-03T14:05:00.001-08:00

...Grows Together! Although this is not an LETU sponsored event, it is a community event that you may want to support. I am so happy to be living in a town where we can pray, where our Mayor is not ashamed of public prayer and where people can still congregate to beseech God for His continued mercy and grace.

http://unitylongview.org/

When? Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Time? 6:30p.m.

Are you a Gal of "certain age" looking to enroll at LETU?

2009-10-14T13:01:00.000-07:00

Here is a (random!) scholarship you can apply for:

The Talbot's Scholarship

Hope you apply BOTH for the Scholarship and to LETU!

*This scholarship is not through or related to LETU...its because I shop at Talbots and get their info...so make my shopping dollars worthwhile and apply!

Dig for the Cure

2009-10-06T07:59:00.001-07:00

Tuesday, October 13th – Volleyball ‘Dig for the Cure’ vs ETBU

Raising funds and awareness for Breast Cancer Research.PINK OUT!!
Free for Students.$3 for faculty.$5 for adults.

Where: Solheim

When: Oct 13th, 6pm

Also Senior Night!

Longview Historical Home Tour - THIS WEEKEND

2009-09-19T06:19:00.000-07:00

Longview is home to some of the most beautiful homes you can find...come experience the exquisite interiors and lush gardens at the Historical Home Tour today and tomorrow from 2-5P.M. There are four beautiful homes on this Nugget Hill tour:

802 North 6th
1005 Turner
1104 Turner
814 Charlotte

Tickets are available at each of the homes or at the Gregg County Historical Museum. Its a GREAT way to enjoy a rainy afternoon...

We will be there! Hope to see you there too!

*Parking at First Christian Church, by Good Shepherd Hospital.

CRY OUT AMERICA - September 11, 2009

2009-09-09T12:41:00.000-07:00

Speer Chapel will be open Friday, September 11, all day for all students, faculty and staff to pray for our country.

Friday, September 11, 2009 - Cry Out America 2009 - ....and cry out to the Lord." Joel 1:14

In response to our nation’s need and God’s Biblical and historical pattern for bringing awakening to America, Awakening America Alliance (www.awakeningamerica.us), is issuing a spiritual wakeup call through CRY OUT AMERICA, a historical, nationwide prayer gathering.

At noon, on Friday, September 11, 2009, tens of thousands will gather across the nation in repentance, prayer for the lost and crying out for God to send a Christ awakening to our nation again. To be part of this event Speer Chapel will be open Friday, September 11, all day for all students, faculty and staff to pray for our country.

KUDOS TO LETU!

2009-08-21T06:47:00.000-07:00

Its an awesome day here at LETU...with orientation under way, our new students are arriving and our upperclassmen return this weekend. Its always an exciting time to see the school jump to life as the students return - you can almost see the trees and buildings straightening themselves up more just to say "hello!" to our returning students. I love working in higher ed and weeks like this one are the icing on the cake...

...and to put a cherry on top, LETU has again ranked in the top tier nationally in U.S. News and World Report’s rankings of “America’s Best Colleges.” WOOOOHOOO!!!! We are ranked 6th among Texas schools in the region and 32nd among Best Universities — Master’s in the Western Region in the 2010 U.S. News rankings. Isn't that awesome? I know that Pop LeTourneau would be proud and we are so thankful for God's continued blessings!

To check out the LETU press release, click here.

To check out the Longview News-Journal article, click here.

And now, some photos from our orientation and move-in week:

The Paul and Betty Abbott Aviation Center

2009-08-04T06:12:00.000-07:00

LETU’s new facility at East Texas Regional Airport will be named The Paul and Betty Abbott Aviation Center!

From President Lunsford:

"Paul and Betty Abbott of Okmulgee, Okla., have been involved in the life of the university since the late 1960s when Paul was a student. He graduated in 1971 with a degree in Aviation Technology. Today, they own Covington Aircraft Engines, Inc., a world leader in aircraft engine overhaul and repair, specializing in Pratt & Whitney radial and turbine engines. Their character is clearly evident in the way they conduct their business, providing opportunities for their employees to come to know Christ and grow spiritually through regular chapel services, offered in much the same way that LETU founder R.G. LeTourneau did in his day.

Paul and Betty Abbott have consistently and generously contributed to efforts at LETU such as the Marty Donner Engine Test Facility, NIFA student flight competitions and scholarships for students, including those pursuing careers in mission aviation. The Abbotts also contributed aircraft engines and parts for use by LETU’s School of Aeronautical Science. Paul has participated in a real and substantial way on the Aeronautical Science Advisory Committee, serving as an inaugural member and as its chairman. He has offered his expertise to the university by providing Pratt & Whitney PT-6 engine training to the university’s turbine engine instructor. Also, with Betty’s support, Paul has made even a broader impact on the university by serving as a trustee since 2002.

With the help of LETU friends like the Abbotts, incredible gains have been made in the aviation programs. LETU graduates have long made a difference in mission organizations, airlines, and in corporate travel around the world. In the past few years, LETU has increased the breadth of its programs with new concentrations in mission, marketing, and military aviation. In addition, the FAA has authorized LETU as the first college in Texas to offer an air traffic control program.

Every institution has a few people who embody the mission and vision of the organization. Paul and Betty Abbott are just such people. Their actions, their commitment of time and resources, and their godly character make an eternal impact for Christ, making them the perfect choice for this recognition. Their names and their witness, we believe, will inspire others to give and by doing so inspire students to serve in every workplace and in every nation."

THANK YOU PAUL AND BETTY!

THANK YOU WONDERFUL ALUMNI!

2009-07-17T08:32:00.000-07:00

Thank Yer'

We have some awesome alumni here at LETU! Thank you for all the photos and comments and info you provided for the new Office of International Studies pages! I am so excited to see where you all have been traveling and living and studying and worshiping. What great photos!!! Our webpages should be up by end of July (at the LATEST!) so if you submitted photos about your international adventures, look for them there! (If you would like to submit photos, just email them to me: martamartin@letu.edu.)

Thank you EVERYONE!!!

Let's yell it from the rooftops!

2009-06-29T11:39:00.000-07:00

LETU wins coveted Loening trophy!!!

LeTourneau University’s " Sting Precision Flight Team" has won the rarest and oldest of all collegiate aviation awards – The Loening Trophy. Named after Dr. Grover Loening, aviation pioneer and first aeronautical engineer for the Wright Brothers, this coveted honor is considered the most prestigious award at the annual NIFA (National Intercollegiate Flying Association) SAFECON competition and recognizes the outstanding all-around collegiate aviation program in the nation.

The pure silver Tiffany designed trophy has been awarded to outstanding programs throughout the years since Loening asked his friends and famous pilots, Charles Lindbergh and Amelia Earhart, to join him in judging the first competition in 1929. But its extraordinary significance hasn’t tarnished.

The award not only recognizes the pivotal values of aviation success, from safety and aeronautical skills to professionalism, but also emphasizes academic achievement and community involvement.

Congratulations to the students who participated in the

2009 SAFECON Competition!
Chris Barnes, Rachel Ballou, Alex Minium, Jared Gebel, Marc Gravelle, Daniel Grollimund, Leanne Haycraft, Steve Hederstedt, Ben Hoogewerf, Brandon McCann, Chad Mertz, Ken Misiak, Sam Myers, Andrew Robinson, Caleb Waite and Andre Ziolkowski. Team coach: LETU flight instructor Roger Braun

Flag Day - June 14th

2009-06-09T07:30:00.001-07:00

June 14th is Flag Day. Here is a cool site where you can learn more about our flag
www.americanhistory.si.edu/ssb

Want to be a part of American history? How about capturing what the U.S. flag means to you? You can upload a photo and submit a story of what the U.S. flag means to you to at: www.americanhistory.si.edu/ssb.

The Star Spangled Banner

by: Francis Scott Key

O say can you see, by the dawn’s early light,

What so proudly we hail’d at the twilight’s last gleaming,

Whose broad stripes and bright stars through the perilous fight

O’er the ramparts we watch’d were so gallantly streaming?

And the rocket’s red glare, the bombs bursting in air,

Gave proof through the night that our flag was still there,

O say does that star-spangled banner yet wave

O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave?

On the shore dimly seen through the mists of the deep

Where the foe’s haughty host in dread silence reposes,

What is that which the breeze, o’er the towering steep,

As it fitfully blows, half conceals, half discloses?

Now it catches the gleam of the morning’s first beam,

In full glory reflected now shines in the stream,
’Tis the star-spangled banner - O long may it wave

O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave!

And where is that band who so vauntingly swore,
That the havoc of war and the battle’s confusion

A home and a Country should leave us no more?

Their blood has wash’d out their foul footstep’s pollution.

No refuge could save the hireling and slave

From the terror of flight or the gloom of the grave,

And the star-spangled banner in triumph doth wave

O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave.

O thus be it ever when freemen shall stand

Between their lov’d home and the war’s desolation!

Blest with vict’ry and peace may the heav’n rescued land

Praise the power that hath made and preserv’d us a nation!

Then conquer we must, when our cause it is just,

And this be our motto - “In God is our trust,”

And the star-spangled banner in triumph shall wave

O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave.

In God we trust,
Marta

photo: smithsonian

So what about...

2009-06-04T06:38:00.001-07:00

...the Office of Alumni and Parent Relations? Well, friends, the OAPR (try saying that out loud- its pretty funny!) is for the interim under the very much loved eye of Mr. Bryan Benson. You all know Bryan right? Pilot extraordinaire...funny man all around...AMAZING story teller? If you do not know Bryan, swing by and say "hello."

Bryan is an LETU alumnus and has been with the University for oodles of years. Yes sir, Bryan knows LETU inside out, backwards and forwards! Which is why he and Kendall make a great team! (Kendall has been with LETU over 18 years - AWESOMENESS!) Joining Bryan and Kendall in all things Alumni and Parent related is Ms. Kenda Bedford, another fine transplant to the Piney Woods! Kenda is actually a LeTourneau Mom herself.
And did you know that Bryan, Kendall and Kenda have planned an action-packed Hangar Party for you this year? That's right: THE BALLOON GLOW PARTY CONTINUES!!!!

July 11, 2009 (Saturday)

7pm—9pm

LETU Hangar
East Texas Regional Airport

You can purchase tickets for the Balloon Race at these fine establishments:
Longview Mall
Longview Partnership
Patterson Nissan - Longview
Patterson Chevrolet, Chrysler Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep - Kilgore
Patterson Chrysler Dodge Jeep - Marshall
Kilgore Chamber of Commerce

See you there!
Marta

WOWZA!

2009-06-04T06:24:00.000-07:00

My apologies for my failure to post! It has been crazy in Marta-land - but crazy busy in a VERRA VERRA good way. I am now the Director of International Studies for LETU and am so excited to begin this new post! Its a great way to continue to serve and I get to work with really cool people such as:

Carlton Mitchell (Director of Student Support Services)

Corey Ross (Dean of Students)

Linda Higgs (International and Student Support Coordinator)

I'll be interviewing these folks this month so that YOU can get to know them better!

Its exciting for LETU to create the Office of International Studies ("OIS"). As we forge ahead with our new vision of "every workplace, every nation", the OIS will lead the way in bringing the world to LETU and taking LETU global! Already, so many of our students travel abroad through the CCCU's Best Semester program and it is my hope that in the future, ALL LETU grads will leave our campus with at least ONE passport stamp. Isn't that exciting?

What do you think? In your student days, did you travel abroad with LETU? If you did not, what trip would you have loved to make? Let me know.

Ciao!

Marta

A wee bit of history...

2009-05-11T06:27:00.000-07:00

The state preambles...something to ponder!
Alabama 1901, Preamble We the people of the State of Alabama , invoking the favor and guidance of Almighty God, do ordain and establish the following Constitution...

Alaska 1956, Preamble We, the people of Alaska , grateful to God and to those who founded our nation and pioneered this great land.

Arizona 1911, Preamble We, the people of the State of Arizona , grateful to Almighty God for our liberties, do ordain this Constitution...

Arkansas 1874, Preamble We, the people of the State of Arkansas , grateful to Almighty God for the privilege of choosing our own form of government...

California 1879, Preamble We, the People of the State of California , grateful to Almighty God for our freedom...

Colorado 1876, Preamble We, the people of Colorado , with profound reverence for the Supreme Ruler of Universe...

Connecticut 1818, Preamble. The People of Connecticut, acknowledging with gratitude the good Providence of God in permitting them to enjoy.

Delaware 1897, Preamble Through Divine Goodness all men have, by nature, the rights of worshipping and serving their Creator according to the dictates of their consciences...

Florida 1885, Preamble We, the people of the State of Florida , grateful to Almighty God for our constitutional liberty, establish this Constitution...

Georgia 1777, Preamble We, the people of Georgia , relying upon protection and guidance of Almighty God, do ordain and establish this Constitution...

Hawaii 1959, Preamble We , the people of Hawaii , Grateful for Divine Guidance ... Establish this Constitution.

Idaho 1889, Preamble We, the people of the State of Idaho , grateful to Almighty God for our freedom, to secure its blessings.

Illinois 1870, Preamble We, the people of the State of Illinois, grateful to Almighty God for the civil , political and religious liberty which He hath so long permitted us to enjoy and looking to Him for a blessing on our endeavors.

Indiana 1851, Preamble We, the People of the State of Indiana , grateful to Almighty God for the free exercise of the right to choose our form of government.

Iowa 1857, Preamble We, the People of the State of Iowa , grateful to the Supreme Being for the blessings hitherto enjoyed, and feeling our dependence on Him for a continuation of these blessings, establish this Constitution.

Kansas 1859, Preamble We, the people of Kansas , grateful to Almighty God for our civil and religious privileges establish this Constitution.

Kentucky 1891, Preamble. We, the people of the Commonwealth are grateful to Almighty God for the civil, political and religious liberties..

Louisiana 1921, Preamble We, the people of the State of Louisiana , grateful to Almighty God for the civil, political and religious liberties we enjoy.

Maine 1820, Preamble We the People of Maine acknowledging with grateful hearts the goodness of the Sovereign Ruler of the Universe in affording us an opportunity .. And imploring His aid and direction.

Maryland 1776, Preamble We, the people of the state of Maryland , grateful to Almighty God for our civil and religious liberty...

Massachusetts 1780, Preamble We...the people of Massachusetts, acknowledging with grateful hearts, the goodness of the Great Legislator of the Universe In the course of His Providence, an opportunity and devoutly imploring His direction.

Michigan 1908, Preamble. We, the people of the State of Michigan , grateful to Almighty God for the blessings of freedom, establish this Constitution.

Minnesota, 1857, Preamble We, the people of the State of Minnesota, grateful to God for our civil and religious liberty, and desiring to perpetuate its blessings...

Mississippi 1890, Preamble We, the people of Mississippi in convention assembled, grateful to Almighty God, and invoking His blessing on our work.

Missouri 1845, Preamble We, the people of Missouri , with profound reverence for the Supreme Ruler of the Universe, and grateful for His goodness . Establish this Constitution...

Montana 1889, Preamble. We, the people of Montana , grateful to Almighty God for the blessings of liberty establish this Constitution ..

Nebraska 1875, Preamble We, the people, grateful to Almighty God for our freedom . Establish this Constitution.

Nevada 1864, Preamble We the people of the State of Nevada , grateful to Almighty God for our freedom, establish this Constitution...

New Hampshire 1792, Part I. Art. I. Sec. V Every individual has a natural and unalienable right to worship God according to the dictates of his own conscience.

New Jersey 1844, Preamble We, the people of the State of New Jersey, grateful to Almighty God for civil and religious liberty which He hath so long permitted us to enjoy, and looking to Him for a blessing on our endeavors.

New Mexico 1911, Preamble We, the People of New Mexico, grateful to Almighty God for the blessings of liberty...

New York 1846, Preamble We, the people of the State of New York, grateful to Almighty God for our freedom, in order to secure its blessings.

North Carolina 1868, Preamble We the people of the State of North Carolina, grateful to Almighty God, the Sovereign Ruler of Nations, for our civil, political, and religious liberties, and acknowledging our dependence upon Him for the continuance of those...

North Dakota 1889, Preamble We, the people of North Dakota, grateful to Almighty God for the blessings of civil and religious liberty, do ordain...

Ohio 1852, Preamble We the people of the state of Ohio, grateful to Almighty God for our freedom, to secure its blessings and to promote our common.

Oklahoma 1907, Preamble Invoking the guidance of Almighty God, in order to secure and perpetuate the blessings of liberty, establish this

Oregon 1857, Bill of Rights, Article I Section 2. All men shall be secure in the Natural right, to worship Almighty God according to the dictates of their consciences.

Pennsylvania 1776, Preamble We, the people of Pennsylvania, grateful to Almighty God for the blessings of civil and religious liberty, and humbly invoking His guidance....

Rhode Island 1842, Preamble. We the People of the State of Rhode Island grateful to Almighty God for the civil and religious liberty which He hath so long permitted us to enjoy, and looking to Him for a blessing...
South Carolina, 1778, Preamble We, the people of he State of South Carolina grateful to God for our liberties, do ordain and establish this Constitution.

South Dakota 1889, Preamble We, the people of South Dakota, grateful to Almighty God for our civil and religious liberties ...

Tennessee 1796, Art. XI..III. That all men have a natural and indefeasible right to worship Almighty God according to the dictates of their conscience...

Texas 1845, Preamble We the People of the Republic of Texas, acknowledging, with gratitude, the grace and beneficence of God.

Utah 1896, Preamble Grateful to Almighty God for life and liberty, we establish this Constitution.

Vermont 1777, Preamble Whereas all government ought to enable the individuals who compose it to enjoy their natural rights, and other blessings which the Author of Existence has bestowed on man...

Virginia 1776, Bill of Rights, XVI Religion, or the Duty which we owe our Creator can be directed only by Reason and that it is the mutual duty of all to practice Christian Forbearance, Love and Charity towards each other.

Washington 1889, Preamble We the People of the State of Washington, grateful to the Supreme Ruler of the Universe for our liberties, do ordain this Constitution.

West Virginia 1872, Preamble Since through Divine Providence we enjoy the blessings of civil, political and religious liberty, we, the people of West Virginia reaffirm our faith in and constant reliance upon God ...

Wisconsin 1848, Preamble We, the people of Wisconsin, grateful to Almighty God for our freedom, domestic tranquility...

Wyoming 1890, Preamble We, the people of the State of Wyoming, grateful to God for our civil, political, and religious liberties, establish this Constitution...

Graduation has come....

2009-05-05T08:31:00.000-07:00

...and gone for our Longview campus. We are now gearing up for commencement in Houston this coming Saturday. Graduation is always an exciting time, isn't it? New doors open, the highway is wide open, the horizon is before you...a million ways to say it! But one thing is for sure: we love our LeTourneau alumni and cannot wait for them to return to campus! So its not adieu, its "see you laters!"

Student Foundation

2009-04-24T09:14:00.000-07:00

Student Foundation is now part of LeTourneau's Development Department! We are so thrilled. Student Foundation is a great group of dedicated students who serve as ambassadors of the university throughout Longview and beyond. I serve with Kris Erickson, Director of the Annual Foundation, as co-advisor for this awesome group of LETU students. This Thursday, we had a little farewell party...as many of the members are graduating and summer is looming, of course. Below are some shots:

Check out Student Foundation's webpages for more info about this exciting student group on campus! We can't wait for 2009-2010 to see how the group grows and how we can better serve LETU in our community.

Thank you!

2009-04-21T08:08:00.000-07:00

Matt and I are happy to announce the birth of our little Morgan Elena Martin. She is a happy baby and we are truly thankful for all the kindness each of you has shown us - during the pregnancy and now that she has arrived! Blessings to you all. :)

If you have a future little LeTourneau alumnus, don't forget to send us an announcement and photo so that we can include it in the next NOW magazine. You can email your announcement to alumni@letu.edu.

-Marta, Dir. of Alumni and Parent Relations

Considering LeTourneau?

2009-04-17T09:17:00.000-07:00

While Longview does have a small town feel, it is also an extremely rich community! If you are considering LeTourneau University or are coming to visit a LeTourneau student, here are a few exciting events you could be enjoying this month!

Golden Dragon AcrobatsBelcher Center
April 25 and 26, 2009 http://www.belchercenter.com/seasonEvents_hb.html

ArtWalk
Longview May 7
5-8PMDowntown Longview
http://www.artwalklongview.com/

"Willy Wonka"
Artsview Children's Theater
May 7 -16, 2009
www.artsviewchildrenstheater.com

Enjoy!

Commencement is right around the corner!

2009-04-14T07:27:00.001-07:00

Hello and happy spring everyone! What beautiful weather we are having in Longview today - 50 degrees and the sun is SHINING! GORGEOUS!!! And of course with spring comes the promise of commencement...can you believe it? Commencement for LETU is on May 2, 2009 for the Longview campus (traditional and non-traditional students) and May 9, 2009 in Houson (non-traditional students). If you need more information about commencement, check it out here.

How can you pray today? Well, with commencement around the bend come the insane last weeks of the semester - so please pray for our students as they hustle to finish up projects, desperately research and write papers and take final exams. It is a very stressful time for them all!

And the Beat Goes On!

2009-02-06T14:35:00.000-08:00

What's better than a strong ticker? Than healthy cholesterol levels? LETU's annual Health Fair provides many health related tests and assessments for the community and this year's fair, on Feb. 5, was no different. Hundreds of our community came to the LETU Health Fair to obtain over $500 in free health tests and assessments! Here are some photos from one of LETU's many, many outreach programs to our community:

A million thanks to our wonderful community partners!!!

Dining Hall Update!

2009-02-06T14:21:00.000-08:00

In just a short, short while, the new Cafe at LeTourneau University will be ready for students, guests and LETU family to enjoy! Here are some good shots of the ongoing construction:

If you come to Homecoming, it might be open for your enjoyment!

January at LETU!

2009-01-14T14:46:00.000-08:00

We drove in to work in a nippy 29 degrees...chilly enough to feel like winter, but it soon warmed up to where we could enjoy a sunny lunch on the lawns, under the trees, all bundled up. LeTourneau truly has a beautiful campus! And you know what? You have TWO great upcoming opportunities to visit!

Parent and Family Weekend

(February 13 and 14, 2009)

Homecoming 2009

(April 2-5, 2009)

BABY NEWS!

On a personal note, I will be taking maternity leave shortly. My hubby and I are super excited about the arrival of our first Little One soon. In my absence, Kendall Harper will man the Alumni and Parent Relations Office, although I will be checking in as much as a newborn allows. In case you need any information during my absence, below is the contact information you may need.

Office of Alumni and Parent Relations

alumni@letu.edu or parents@letu.edu

(903) 233-3804 or (800) 259-2586

The Year In Review

2009-01-06T13:54:00.000-08:00

Some great shots from fall 2008!

Registration

Student Convocation

New digs for the Aero-Sci program Dinner with Dr. and Mrs. Lunsford

Catapumpkin!!!!

International Flair at LETU

Banking Conference Houston Graduation Longview Graduation

Christmas in January?

2009-01-06T13:38:00.000-08:00

February? And July?

One of our alumni, Sharon Sue Siske-Crunk, surprised us with a wonderful Christmas letter...within it she sent us copies of some of her favorite devotionals regarding God's promise for a Messiah and the birth of Christ. Although it is now January, I thought you might enjoy them as well and we could extend the Christmas season for a few days more!

Many years before the Savior was born, the Lord spoke through the prophet Isaiah, saying, "Behold the virgin shall conceive and bear a son and shall call His name Immanuel." (Isaiah 7:14). And in verse 6 of chapter 9 we read, "For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given." Did God keep His word? Indeed He did! Galations 4:4 states, "When the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son."

So my challenge to all readers is: LETS CELEBRATE ALL YEAR LONG! "Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!" (2 Cor. 9:15).

How We Can Pray Today: School started again today...its wonderful to see our students back after the Christmas break and once again to see the campus vibrating with their energy and youth and dreams and desires! Please continue to pray for our students - they faithfully hold the future.

Political Apathy

2008-12-19T12:47:00.000-08:00

On Saturday, December 13, Robert McFarland addressed our new crop of LETU graduates. His topic? Political apathy. In a rousing commencement speech that garnered a standing ovation, Mr. McFarland reminded all of us that our voice counts and more importantly, our involvement makes a different. How can we avoid political apathy? Here are some of his recommendations:

Be knowledgeable and involved.
· Know your own elected officials

· Become familiar with how they vote on issues

· Call their offices and voice your opinions on the issues of the day and tell them how you want them to vote.

· When they don’t vote the way you expect them to vote, voice your dissatisfaction both verbally and in writing.

· Always – always vote in general and local elections

· Talk to the staff people who work for your elected officials. Most of the time, they are whom you will get when you call. Let them know your opinions.

· Let the elected official and their staffs know that you will not vote for and continue to support someone who won’t represent your values.

· Support local and national efforts to install term limits so we can dissolve this business of professional politicians.

* All the information you need to do these things is available to you on the Internet and Google. You just have to commit to not being apathetic.

Sounds like a great New Year's resolution to me!

Thank You LAN Volunteers!!!

2008-12-08T14:22:00.000-08:00

Thank You

LeTourneau Alumni Network Volunteers!

2008 was a banner year for LeTourneau's Alumni Network. Our wonderful LAN volunteers represented LeTourneau at college fairs throughout the country and we just wanted to say THANK YOU to these awesome LeTourneau University Alumni:

The Rockin’ 50’s
Howard Van Horn '59

The Far Out 60’s
Robert Shepherd '68
John Earhart '69

The Groovy 70’s
Albert "Skip" Curtis ‘73
Ken Haigh ‘75
Bill Gallagher ‘75
Jim Tolson '76
Howard Wilson '78
Randy Hartman '79

The Cool 80’s
Royal Nordeen ‘80
Dave '80 & Judy Cottrill
Bill Garfield ‘81
Dr. Sid Cradduck ‘82
Rev. Peter Daley ‘82
Carol Roszhart '84
Jim Brake '86

The Awesome 90’s
Jeff ’93 & Jenelle Piepmeier ‘93
Eric Swanson ‘95
Jason McIlravy ‘98

To Infinity and Beyond
George Sparks '00
Jessi Scherm ‘01
Lynn Swanbom ‘04
Bri Kirsch ‘05
Grace Aubert '05
Charissa '06 & Pete Shull '05
Matt Erickson ‘07

Thank you also to Sid Osborn!

Are you interested in becoming one our LAN volunteers? Want more info? Please email Allison Gardner, Coordinator, (allisongardner@letu.edu) to find out more! Next year, we would love to have you on our recognition list!

Toward A New Vision

2008-12-08T13:04:00.000-08:00

Fall greeted us with not only new students and faculty, but also with a new vision for LETU. After months of conversations, and lotsa listening, President Lunsford revealed LETU's Toward A New Vision.

The university’s new vision statement reads, “Claiming every workplace in every nation as our mission field, LeTourneau University graduates are professionals of ingenuity and Christ-like character who see life’s work as a holy calling with eternal impact.” Isn't that exciting? I know this vision was revealed a couple of months back but I find myself reflecting on it more and more. What does it mean to ME? How does it apply to ME? So I pass on these questions to you...

What does this mean to you? How can YOU claim every workplace, every nation as YOUR mission field? It's tough sometimes, isn't it, to feel like the only one bearing the baton. But that's what we are called to do...even if we fail God tragically...so, back to the original question:

How can YOU claim every workplace, every nation as YOUR mission field?

As we ready for a new year, this might be a good place to start some of those new year's resolutions.

Thanksgiving has...

2008-12-03T08:51:00.001-08:00

...come and gone...as we enter the Christmas season, its time to reflect on all the wonders of God's love for his people. I wonder, how many of us would willingly give up our only child for the sake of a people who continually turn their backs on us and do exactly the opposite of what we ask of them? Just a thought for you...

...and on a lighter note, the end of the year also signals our alumni and LeTourneau family to begin thinking of Homecoming! Homecoming this year is on April 2-5, 2009 at LeTourneau. Make plans to attend!

The LETU Alumni Advisory Council

2008-11-10T13:35:00.000-08:00

The LETU Alumni Advisory Council is a group of dedicated alumni who serve in an advisory capacity to the Office of Alumni and Parent Relations. Here is an opportunity for you to meet some of these hardworking folks! I'll post more members tomorrow - including the ladies on the council!

If you are interested in serving on the LETU Alumni Advisory Council or would like to volunteer your help, we'd love to hear from you: alumni@letu.edu or (800) 259-2586.

Dean Waskowiak, Chair-Elect

Dave Cottrill (also an LETU Trustee)

Dave Fyock

Richard Bringhurst

Ed Claypool

Another wonderful person you need to know!

2008-10-21T08:33:00.001-07:00

Last week, we celebrated Janet Ragland's birthday. Janet is the Director of University Relations and does an amazing job in representing the University through media channels. She is also super personable to boot and a hoot to have around! HAPPY BIRTHDAY JANET!

Student Foundation Cakes

2008-10-09T07:54:00.000-07:00

Every year, students "feel the love" when they receive a specially ordered Student Foundation Cake for their birthday, finals, or just because. If you know an LETU student and want to make their day, lift their spirits or just let them know you are thinking of them, Student Foundation has some awesome cakes you can order! Like these:

Want to order a cake?

Just visit the Student Foundation Page for the order form by clicking here.

Thank you for supporting Student Foundation! Proceeds benefit student scholarships and that is truly a sweet deal!

Fall Fest!

2008-10-09T07:45:00.000-07:00

Another year, another beautiful Fall Fest Week...events this year included the Dance Off in Skipper Hall, Queen nominees and their garb (see below) and a ton of other LETU traditions that made our campus more colorful and lively!

The students ended the weeks festivities with the Fall Fest Banquet, named their King and Queen and then enjoyed opening night of the Longview Symphony, which featured the works of European Masters. Longview has a vibrant arts community, including the Symphony. We hope next time you come to visit campus you also enjoy one of the many fine arts offerings Longview has for you!

If you also note above, the Advancement ladies (except for the fall fest princess, Angela) are wearing pink in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month!

Class of '58/ Alumni Council

2008-10-02T12:11:00.000-07:00

The Class of '58 is celebrating their 50th this coming October 10th! They will be joined by the LETU Alumni Advisory Council...the weather is perfect in Longview for their visits back to campus! In light of their impending arrival, we have put together a few of our faves here in town for their (and your enjoyment)! These are actually some of my faves, but that belingers the point...

Enjoying Longview!

Destinations
Longview Museum of Fine Arts
215 E. Tyler Street
Downtown Longview
10 -4PM Tuesday – Friday
Noon – 4PM Saturday
Closed Sunday
903-753-8103

Bach Lunches
Friday, October 10, 2008Noon - 1:00 pm

Gala Strunk, organist

Free to the public
First Christian Church * 720 6th Street, Longview

Join the Longview Symphony as they celebrate the International Year of the Organ in the beautiful churches of downtown Longview. Dining hall opens at noon - bring your own lunch and beverages will be served. The concert begins at 12:20 pm and is dismissed at 12:55 pm.

Music on the Plaza

Friday, October 10, 2008

Lunchtime; Free to the Public

Heritage Plaza, Downtown Longview

Longview Trade Days
Saturday, October 11, 2008
8 – 5PM
Longview Fair Grounds, Longview, TX

Dining
Beths Cafe

1811 A. Judson Rd. Longview, TX 75605ph: 903-234-1381

Deb’s Downtown Café
103 W Tyler StLongview, TX 75601(903) 234-2823

Mario's

2609 Judson Rd., Longview 75605
(903) 753-4442

Shopping
Holiday Market
Maude Cobb Activity Center
100 Grand Blvd. (off of Cotton Street)
Friday - 9 am - 5 pmSaturday 9 am - 5 pmSunday 11 am - 4 pmCost: Weekend Pass $10; Per day $5For more information contact 903-736-3785.
Benefits the Longview Symphony, over 75 vendors

That Girl’s Boutique
112 W Methvin StLongview, TX 75601(903) 212-4475

Denim Lounge and Perfume Bar
204 N Fredonia StLongview, TX 75601(903) 236-3000

Want to know more about visiting Longview? Please visit the Visitors website by clicking here.

It's Constitution Week!

2008-09-16T07:39:00.003-07:00

To encourage the LeTourneau University community of faculty, staff and students to understand the significance of Constitution Day on Wednesday, September 17, LeTourneau University's Webb Historical Society has put together some valuable resources to share with you to review at your pleasure.

May this be a time of remembering how blessed we are to live in America with the freedoms that our U.S. Constitution protects as we give thanks to our heavenly Father and pray for the needs of this great nation. We encourage you to be a part of this time of celebration.

Doug Wilcoxson, Ph.D.
Vice President for Student Affairs

Philadelphia, September 17, 1787: A group of 39 statesmen signed a document they had been working on for the past 4 months.

This document, originally intended as a revision of the Articles of Confederation (the original charter of the new United States), had grown into an entirely new U. S. Constitution.

Today, this Constitution is the oldest (and shortest) written constitution in the world. It has inspired many imitations; people around the world have been encouraged by it. To us and many others, this text represents the ideals and principles of free government.

This year, by congressional resolution, September 17 is being celebrated as Constitution Day to honor the birth of the American government.

LeTourneau University and its chapter of the Walter Prescott Webb Historical Society encourage all LETU students to use this opportunity to reflect on the freedoms that our Constitution protects. This is an opportunity for thanksgiving and praise. It is also a chance to learn about this document’s history and importance.

We the People of the United States, in order to form a more perfect Union, establish justice, insure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America. Continue reading....

Online Resources:
National Archives: View scans of the original document and read the full text
Founders Gallery: See portraits of the American Founders
Constitution Day: Find more ways to celebrate
Constitution Timeline: Trace the history of American government
Interactive Constitution: See how the Constitution has been interpreted

A message from the Walter Prescott Webb Historical Society.

The year would not be complete...

2008-09-09T07:32:00.000-07:00

without the LeTourneau University Alma Mater SONG!

"LeTourneau's sons and daughters true,
Are faithful 'round this world to you.
Our prayers ascend to God on High,
That in His will your path may lie.

CHORUS:
O Alma Mater, praise to thee,
We pledge anew our loyalty.
The happy days we here have spent;
A new zeal to our lives have lent.
IN joyful song it must be told:
All hail LeTourneau, Blue and Gold;
All hail LeTourneau, Blue and Gold!

Caressed by sunny southern skies
Our honored Alma Mater lies.
Among the murm'ring green pines near,
We lift our praise to thee so dear."

SING IT PROUD AND LOUD!

LeTourneau University - Fall Convocation

2008-09-05T13:33:00.001-07:00

On August 27th, the LeTourneau nation gathered in the cacoon of the S.E. Belcher Chapel and Performance Center and entered into a time of convocation. What a beautiful way to get the year started! Here is the scripture reading from Convocation:

Then Jesus came to them and said, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age. Matthew 28:18-20

Absolutely nothing to do with LETU!

2008-08-14T13:35:00.000-07:00

But these are soooo cool I thought you would enjoy them nonetheless!

Things I wish I knew...

2008-08-12T07:52:00.000-07:00

Recently we asked our LETU Alumni Council to provide some feedback regarding: things I wish I knew when I graduated. Here are some nuggets of wisdom from Council Member Seth Buttner ('94), below. Next week we will feature some more great advise from other LETU Alumni Council members. Hope you enjoy!

1. Understand general financing things like school loans, car loans, credit cards. It will keep you out of trouble! Also, get really familiar with your employer's 401K program, company pension plan and saving plans, and health plans!!!

2. “Humility” is what gets you ahead in the corporate world …in the long run. If they are looking for quick success; then sure, their academic success will be a great help. But for long-term, respected leadership then patience and humility will go a long way.

3. Learn how to be organized. Practice organizing your private life and it will spill over into work life. Get a PalmPilot, i-Phone, or whatever. It’s An Investment!

4. Your personal, social, and communication skills are key. I was very technical in my academic career and now 75% of what I do in my career is communication. My advice: take a speech class and pay attention to writing skills classes, might be more valuable then you think.

5. Get a good idea how industries work, even if it is not your chosen career, that’s okay, look at it as your future competitor. Take advantage of your student traveling -driving home on summer and spring breaks; any chance you get, stop in somewhere that strikes your curiosity and ask for a tour; most companies have tours host in place. Who knows you may end up working for one of them, or against one of them…This is free knowledge and the more you know about your company, or competitor, it’s a bonus!

6. Learn to cook something significant - like a steak and potatoes. Know the different cuts of meat and learn the difference between Prime, Choice and Select, etc. (i.e. interviewers look at what your are buying, and it’s a good waterhole/small talk at the office.) Also helps on dates - shows you’re not just academic smart.

7. Get a Passport. If you don’t already have one, go out with a friend while you’re still in school. To have this in hand starting job might open doors. Be ready! You never know!!!

The Advancement Fashionistas Strike Again!!!

2008-08-08T09:44:00.000-07:00

Well, the new academic year must be in full swing because...the Advancement Fashionistas strike again!

Here at the LETU Advancement Office we take our "free food" offers seriously...when Chick-fil-A recently had its "dress up like a cow and get free chow" day, the LETU Advancement team turned out in full force...but none as adorably as our very own Director of Foundation and Church Relations, Randy Yeakley.

"MOOOOOO!!!"

In the background, our fearless Kenda is attaching black dots to her white shirt in an effor to look more bovine. But the hat is what brings Randy over the finish line as our winner.

In other LETU Advancement news, here is some advise from resident gal-about-town, Kris Erickson (Director of the Annual Fund):

"Get thee some wellies, a nice poppy rainjacket and an umbrella."

Great advise if you are a new LETU student. When it rains in Longview, it rains in droves. The wellies will be your best friends.

More postings next week as we reach the final stretch before the beginning of classes!

You have been called.

2008-07-22T06:52:00.000-07:00

For your encouragement:
WASHINGTON (July 12, 2008) - Tony Snow, a conservative writer andcommentator who cheerfully sparred with reporters in the White Housebriefing room during a stint as President Bush's press secretary, diedrecently of colon cancer. He was 53. The following was apparently written by Tony a couple of years ago. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
"Blessings arrive in unexpected packages, - in my case, cancer. Those of us with potentially fatal diseases - and there are millions in America today - find ourselves in the odd position of coping with our mortality while trying to fathom God's will. Although it would be the height of presumption to declare with confidence 'What It All Means,' Scripture provides powerful hints and consolations.
The first is that we shouldn't spend too much time trying to answer the 'why' Questions: Why me? Why must people suffer? Why can't someone else get sick? We can't answer such things, and the questions themselves often are designed more to express our anguish than to solicit an answer. I don't know why I have cancer, and I don't much care. It is what it is, a plain and indisputable fact. Yet even while staring into a mirror darkly, great and stunning truths begin to take shape. Our maladies define a central feature of our existence: We are fallen. We are imperfect. Our bodies giveout. But despite this, - or because of it, - God offers the possibility of salvation and grace.

We don't know how the narrative of our lives will end, but we get to choose how to use the interval between now and the moment we meet our Creator face-to-face. Second, we need to get past the anxiety. The mere thought of dying can send adrenaline flooding through your system. A dizzy, unfocused panic seizes you. Your heart thumps; your head swims. You think of nothingness and swoon. You fear partings; you worry about the impact on family and friends. You fidget and get nowhere. To regain footing, remember that we were born not into death, but into life- and that the journey continues after we have finished our days on thisearth. We accept this on faith, but that faith is nourished by a conviction that stirs even within many non believing hearts - an intuition that the gift of life, once given, cannot be taken away.

Those who have been strickenen enjoy the special privilege of being able to fight with their might, main, and faith to live fully, richly, and exuberantly - no matter how their days may be numbered.

Third, we can open our eyes and hearts. God relishes surprise. We want lives of simple, predictable ease,- smooth, even trails as far as the eye can see,- but God likes to go off-road. He provokes us with twists and turns. He places us in predicaments that seem to defy our endurance; and comprehension- and yet don't. By His love and grace, we persevere. The challenges that make our hearts leap and stomachs churn invariably strengthen our faith and grant measures of wisdom and joy we would not experience otherwise. 'You Have Been Called'.

Picture yourself in a hospital bed. The fog of anesthesia has begun to wear away. A doctor stands at your feet; a loved one holds your hand at the side. 'It's cancer,' the healer announces. The natural reaction is to turn to God and ask him to serve as a cosmic Santa. 'Dear God, make it all go away. Make everything simpler.' But another voice whispers: 'You have been called.' Your quandary has drawn you closer to God, closer to those you love, closer to the issues that matter - and has dragged into insignificance the banal concerns that occupy our 'normal time.' There's another kind of response, although usually short-lived an inexplicable shudder of excitement, as if a clarifying moment of calamity has swept away everything trivial and tiny, and placed before us thechallenge of important questions.

The moment you enter the Valley of the Shadow of Death, things change. You discover that Christianity is not something doughy, passive, pious, and soft. Faith may be the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. But it also draws you into a world shorn of fearful caution. The life of belief teems with thrills, boldness, danger, shocks, reversals, triumphs, and epiphanies.

Think of Paul, traipsing through the known world and contemplating trips to what must have seemed the antipodes (Spain), shaking the dust from his sandals, worrying not about the morrow, but only about the moment. There's nothing wilder than a life of humble virtue, - for it is through selflessness and service that God wrings from our bodies and spirits the most we ever could give, the most we ever could offer, and the most we ever could do.

Finally, we can let love change everything. When Jesus was faced with the prospect of crucifixion, he grieved not for himself, but for us. He cried for Jerusalem before entering the holy city. From the Cross, he took on the cumulative burden of human sin and weakness, and begged for forgiveness on our behalf. We get repeated chances to learn that life is not about us, that we acquire purpose and satisfaction by sharing in God's love for others. Sickness gets us part way there. It reminds us of our limitations and dependence. But it also gives us a chance to serve the healthy. A minister friend of mine observes that people suffering grave afflictions often acquire the faith of two people, while loved ones accept the burden of two peoples' worries and fears.

'Learning How to Live'. Most of us have watched friends as they driftedt oward God's arms, not with resignation, but with peace and hope. In so doing, they have taught us not how to die, but how to live. They have emulated Christ by transmitting the power and authority of love. I sat by my best friend's bedside a few years ago as a wasting cancer took him away. He kept at his table a worn Bible and a 1928 edition of the Book of Common Prayer. A shattering grief disabled his family, many of his old friends, and at least one priest. Here was a humble and very good guy, someone who apologized when he winced with pain because he thought it made his guest uncomfortable. He retained his equanimity and good humor literally until his last conscious moment. 'I'm going to try to beat [this cancer],'he told me several months before he died. 'But if I don't, I'll see you on the other side.'

His gift was to remind everyone around him that even though God doesn't promise us tomorrow, he does promise us eternity, - filled with life and love we cannot comprehend, - and that one can in the throes of sickness point the rest of us toward timeless truths that will help us weather future storms. Through such trials, God bids us to choose: Do we believe, or do we not?Will we be bold enough to love, daring enough to serve, humble enough to submit, and strong enough to acknowledge our limitations? Can we surrenderour concern in things that don't matter so that we might devote our remaining days to things that do?

When our faith flags, he throws reminders in our way. Think of the prayer warriors in our midst. They change things, and those of us who have been on the receiving end of their petitions and intercessions know it. It is hard to describe, but there are times when suddenly the hairs on the back of your neck stand up, and you feel a surge of the Spirit. Somehow you just know: Others have chosen, when talking to the Author of all creation, to lift usup, - to speak of us! This is love of a very special order.

But so is the ability to sit back and appreciate the wonder of every created thing. The mere thought of death somehow makes every blessing vivid, every happiness more luminous and intense. We may not know how our contest with sickness will end, but we have felt the ineluctable touch of God. What is man that Thou art mindful of him? We don't know much, but we know this: No matter where we are, no matter what we do, no matter how bleak or frightening our prospects, each and every one of us who believe, each and every day, lies in the same safe and impregnable place, in the hollow of God's hand.'

Tony Snow

LETU Alumni Association Balloon Glow Party

2008-07-17T08:11:00.000-07:00

Whew! This past weekend was a scorcher - but that did not keep over 270 of you from joining us for this year's Balloon Glow Party! With fans on hand and iced water, the LeTourneau University family was able to enjoy a great kick-off to a new year. Dr. Lunsford and his family were able to join us, as well as numerous faculty and staff. But the best part was seeing and meeting so many of our local alumni and their families! We hope to keep this tradition going for years on end.

NEW FACULTY AT LETU

2008-07-08T06:42:00.000-07:00

One of the great strenghts of our curriculum at LETU is the personal commitment of each individual faculty member. We are pleased to announce the following new faculty and covet your prayers as they begin making an impact through our students:

Robert B. Wharton, new dean of the School of Business. Dr. Wharton earned his doctorate from Washington State University, having earned his undergraduate and master’s degrees from Texas A&M and Washington State University, respectively.

Viktor P. Roudkovski will be an assistant professor of Biblical Studies and Christian Ministries. He earned his doctorate from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary.

Kathryn C. Baker and David R. Plunk are two new kinesiology instructors. Baker is a graduate of University of Houston with a Master’s of Education degree and Plunk earned his Master of Science degree from Texas A&M University-Kingsville. Plunk will serve as head women’s soccer coach.

LETU alumnus Andrew W. Visser will serve as aeronautical science instructor and chief flight instructor. N. Elliott Wicker will also serve as an aeronautical science instructor and will serve as assistant chief flight instructor. He earned his wings from the University of Missouri.

Visiting professor of mechanical engineering Yang Gue Jei will teach at LETU from its sister school Handong Global University in Pohang, South Korea.

Alan Jeffrey VanDoren will serve as director of flight training. He earned his Master of Science degree from Delta State University, having completed his undergraduate degree at Thomas Edison State College.

G.A.C.

2008-07-01T07:55:00.000-07:00

The Green Advancement Council has been born! The LETU Advancement Office GAC had an informal meeting this morning to discuss how to be the best stewards of this beautiful earth God has given us. Here are some of our ideas, which we hope you will consider incorporating into your routine:

1. Recycle. Does your city offer free recycling? Take advantage of it! You can reduce your waste by up to 2/3 if you recycle glass, paper and plastic.

2. Recycle part deux. Start a compost pile...by next season, you will have beautiful mulch to feed your yard and garden. And for FREE!!! Idea file. You can build a compost bin or just pick an area of your garden. Remember: all organic material from your kitchen should also be part of your compost pile.

3. Recycle parte tres. Collect rainfall and use it to water your garden. Idea file.

If you need more inspiration other than being a good steward, recycling also saves you money!

Belcher Center Announces New Season

2008-06-27T07:33:00.000-07:00

LeTourneau's Belcher Center announced its new season yesterday! The Belcher Center will delight LeTourneau, Longview and nearby areas with the following:

Friday, Sept. 12, 2008 John Tesh

Thursday, Oct. 16, 2008 "The Pajama Game"

Sat., Nov. 8, 2008 Doc Severinson

Sat., Nov. 22, 2008 “Neil Berg’s 100 Years of Broadway”

Fri., Feb. 6, 2009 Harlem Gospel Choir
Thurs., March 8, 2009 Parson's Dance (modern)
Mon., April 6, 2009 "Annie"

Sat., April 25, 2009 Golden Dragon Acrobats from China

New this year is a three-show “Big Fun Miniseries” which features three weekend matinee performances to suit audiences of all ages. The first show in the miniseries will be Sunday, Sept. 14, featuring Riders in the Sky, which has kept the Western music genre passed on by the Sons of the Pioneers alive for 30 years. Tomáš Kubínek, who is billed as a “certified lunatic and master of the impossible,” will present his exuberant solo show as a comic genius, virtuoso vaudevillian and irresistible charmer on Saturday, Oct. 25. This show has played to sold-out theaters world-wide! The final performance of the Big Fun Miniseries is the Mexico 2000 Ballet Folklorico on Saturday, Jan. 17, featuring 12 dancers and 12 mariachi musicians in colorful costumes presenting the fast-paced music and traditional dances from seven different regions of Mexico.

Season ticket information:

All shows begin at 7:30 p.m, except for the matinee show which begins at 3 p.m.
Season ticket prices for all eight shows are $324 for first orchestra Level A seating, $263 for second orchestra Level B seating, $201 for lower balcony Level C seating and $139 for upper balcony Level D seating.

S.E. Belcher Jr. Chapel and Performance Center
2100 S. Mobberly Ave. Longview, TX 75607

903-233-3080 (Box Office) or 1-866-550-LETU (5388)

We hope to see you at a show soon!

LETU Summer Camps

2008-06-26T13:36:00.000-07:00

Because I am new to campus, I was pleasantly surprised to see our grounds alive again with hundreds of children! They are all partaking in LeTourneau's Summer Camps. The Camps include:

YellowJacket Sport Camps

LadyJacket Sport Camps

Many, many more!

(So many in fact, that I didn't want to type them all out...but you can find out about ALL the camps by visiting our website.) It's cool that LeTourneau is a vibrant place year-round - we were all a sad that our students were gone for the summer. But now are looking forward to having them back in the fall AND enjoying all the kids running around learning during the summer!

P.S. For those of you that read about Pate's (our office duck) baby demise (her duckling was eaten by a hawk while I was taking pictures. Traumatic.), we are happy to report that Pate is happily nesting again and has two little eggs in her nest. More on this as it develops!

P.P.S. For those of you compelled to correct my grammar, please remember that this is a blog - not perfection.

Back from Cascades!

2008-06-18T11:54:00.001-07:00

Of the many benefits in working for LeTourneau University is the fact that personal and professional growth is encouraged, nay expected for all staff and faculty. To this effect, I was able to attend WLDI (Women's Leadership Development Institute) in Washington this past weekend and was blessed beyond measure. Here is a thought:

"Christ is the vocation." Mother Theresa

Think about this for a second...actually, I challenge you to think about it for a whole week or month or year. What does this mean to you? How can you put it into action?

How can you pray today? Please pray for our students - that Christ would become a living vocation for them, whether they engineers or teachers or moms and dads or mechanics or historians. Please pray for our faculty and staff - that our students may see in us the tangible vocation of Christ.

Being a good steward: Turn off the tap when you shave and brush your teeth. You'll save between two to four gallons of water!

The Martin Berry Farm

2008-06-10T11:54:00.000-07:00

One of the great things about attending/working at LeTourneau is the natural beauty and bounty of North East Texas. This past weekend my husband and I made it over to Martin's Berry Farm (no relation!) for some berry pickin'. We had a wonderful date and came home with all this bounty:

While there, another visiting couple was recounting to Mr. Jack Martin that their first date had been at the Martin Berry Farm a year before and now they were happily married! A romantic at heart, I loved that story. Next time you are in Longview or nearby area, why not make a lovely memory of your own?

Martin's Berry Patch (Hallsville)
FM 968 (Gum Springs Road) south of I-20/ (903) 660-3283

Friends of LETU Travel!

2008-06-10T08:22:00.001-07:00

Not only do LETU alumni meet in their hometowns, but now we are also offering other fun ways to get you and the family together! We invite all Alumni and Friends of LETU to join for two exciting cruises in 2009:

Vamos a Mexico!

March 16 to March 21, 2009
Leaving from Galveston, TX to Progresso, Cozumel and the high seas!

Cost: begins at $810 p/p

Reservations by July 15, 2008

*we will take reservations past this date if spots available!

Adventure in Alaska!

July 10 -17, 2009

Leaving from Seattle, WA to Hubbard Glacier, Icy Strait Point and others!

Cost: begins at $1,500 p/p

Reservatiosn by October 15, 2008*

*we will take reservations past this date if spots are availabe!

To make reservations or get more information:

Bev at Omega Travel

bev@omegatravelusa.com (800)363-0012

Make time to make time

2008-06-05T14:33:00.001-07:00

When a friend calls to me from the road
And slows his horse to a meaning walk,

I don't stand still and look around

On all the hills I haven't hoed,

And shout from where I am, 'What is it?'

No, not as there is a time to talk.

I thrust my hoe in the mellow ground,

Blade-end up and five feet tall,

And plod: I go up to the stone wall

For a friendly visit.

-Robert Frost

School of Aeronautical Science has new home!

2008-06-04T15:14:00.001-07:00

Dear fellow alumni,

It is a great day at LeTourneau University as we celebrate that the School of Aeronautical Science will soon have a new home! President Lunsford announced today that LETU’s aviation program will move entirely from the Longview campus into a newly acquired 50,000-square-foot facility, formerly occupied by ARMS, at 200 Airpark Drive at the East Texas Regional Airport.

Check out the new facilities on YouTube here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rFXq3u21Q0k

The facility with renovations is expected to cost the university an estimated $6 million. The main building includes nearly 39,000 square feet with a 10,000-square-foot airplane hangar. Renovations will add classrooms, labs, offices and meeting spaces. Close to 50,000 square feet! AMAZING!!!! About 250 students and over 30 faculty and staff will move into facilities by fall of 2009.

From Fred L. Ritchey, our own dean of the School of Aeronautical Science: “This new facility will enable the school to add new programs to meet its goal of doubling student enrollment in the next ten years. It also will unite the school’s aviation program all at one location for the first time since the mid-1960s.”

Last year, the university added two concentrations in mission aviation and military aviation. This fall, the university will begin offering two new degree concentrations: flight management and flight marketing.

One of the new programs the university hopes to offer includes training for air traffic controllers. The school applied in March to the FAA to provide the FAA AT-CTI program. Final notification from the FAA is not expected until sometime in July. Currently, there is no AT-CTI school in the state of Texas.

We hope you will join us in thanking God for his continued blessing of our campus, our students, our faculty and our staff. You have an amazing heritage through LETU and we hope to see you on campus soon…perhaps to check out the new aviation facilities!

HEALTHINESS

2008-05-30T13:31:00.001-07:00

Is this even a word? Maybe its a "Marta-ism"...but it brings us to the close of our LETU Advancement Office Wellness Challenge...overall, we committed to 1) working out three times a week, 2) healthy eating, 3) daily devotionals and 4) reading one book-book a month. Most of us met these goals and overall the office lost almost 90lbs! Isn't that incredible?

I am thankful to work at LeTourneau where we are encourage to care for the whole person - our bodies, our spirits, our minds. Its wonderful to be employed at a place where our work week is cut down to four days so that we can save money on our commute. We are very blessed!

You can be blessed too - get out there and enjoy God's creation! And while you are at it, here are some ways to help the creation along:

Grand Canyon Trust Volunteers (gcvolunteers.org)
A free 6-day backpacking trip through the banks of the Paria River removing invasive trees as you go.

American Hiking Society (americanhiking.org)
Weeklong vacation in a state or national park while helping clear paths, repair walls, you name it! $245, including lodging and meals.

Ocean Conservancy (oceanconservancy.org)
On September 20, volunteers will scuba dive for debris.

National River Cleanup (americanrivers.org)
You'll get free bags to clean up as you canoe, float or whatever down the rivers of the US.

Just some ideas for you, courtesy of SHAPE magazine.

Speaking of veggies...

2008-05-29T11:53:00.000-07:00

...and healthy living! Look at this loot from our garden:

Farmer's Market Time!

2008-05-28T09:27:00.000-07:00

The LeTourneau Advancement Office "Wellness Challenge" is coming to a close - we will post our winner on Friday. In honor of the past three months when we have tried to be better to ourselves, this post will focus on green, leafy and berry-liscous stuff.

If you are lacking in space or time (or both), you can still get the joy of indulging in fresh veggies and fruits grown right here in East Texas! (I will focus on East Texas but would love to hear about opportunities in your area...if we get a good nationwide list, I will post that too!)

Here are some local farmers - visit them or the local farmer's market. This helps you meet your veggie and fruit needs while also supporting the local economy!

LOCAL FARMS
- Martin's Berry Patch (Hallsville)

FM 968 (Gum Springs Road) south of I-20
(903) 660-3283

- McPeak Orchards (Gilmer/Pittsburg)

U.S. 271, 8 miles north of Gilmer

(903) 762-6477

- Efurd Orchard (Gilmer/Pittsburg)

U.S. 271, 3 miles south of Pittsburg

(903) 856-2253

- The Greer Farm (http://www.greerfarm.com/)

- Texas Blueberry Farm (http://www.texasblueberryfarm.com/)

FARMER'S MARKETS

- Longview
6:30AM until sold; M/W/F *begins Friday (5/30)
Ag Pavillion, Maude Cobb
(903) 237-1230

- Panola

7AM until sold; M/W/F/S *begins Saturday (5/31)

Walmart parking lot, Carthage

(903)693-0380

- Kilgore

8AM until sold; Saturdays *begins 5/31
South Kilgore Street next to Crim Theater

(903)988-4117

- Harrison County

7AM until sold; T/T/S

Lot on Wellington Street one block south of Courthouse

(903) 935-8413

- Cass County

5AM until sold; T/T/S *begins 5/22

Former Sonic on U.S. 59 in Atlanta

(903)796-3296

Enjoy some wholesome goodness!

Remembering LeTourneau - Vintage '73

2008-05-27T11:31:00.000-07:00

Very often, we get awesome insight into our LeTourneau heritage...here is a tid-bit from Walter W. Henry, Class of '73:

"The rule was to wear a tie for Sunday lunch. Mrs. Obetts was an older lady of the well mannered type who served as a lunchroom monitor. She also was very kind and had a great sense of humor. Some of our more extreme techos would slouch in on Sunday wearing a tee shirt and a tie. She would laugh and scold “You know the rule.” They would say “But the rule says wear a tie, and I HAVE a tie.” I think one fellow tried a tee shirt with a tie painted onto its front. They loved to bait her and hear her scold while she tried to be serious and she tried to not laugh.
I consider the dining experience a highlight of my time at LeTourneau."

The Servant Statue

2008-05-21T08:24:00.000-07:00

When you visit campus, the Belcher Center's garden is graced by "The Servant" - a lifesize statue depicting Christ's washing of the disciple's feet. Since 2007, each student graduating from LeTourneau has received a desk-size replica at commencement. It is our hope that the statue will serve as reminder of how we are called as Christians (internal) and also as a witness to colleagues (external.) If you are a 2008 LETU grad and did not receive your statue for a A or B reasons, please let us know at the Alumni office (alumni@letu.edu) and we will try to help you.

Houston Graduation (May, 2008)

2008-05-21T08:17:00.001-07:00

Some photos I was able to sneak of the preliminaries to the Houston Commencement last week.

Practicing with the hood...

I got to shake all these hands and see all the happy faces of accomplishment and pride!

CONGRATULATIONS!!!!

Sin comunicacion

2008-05-21T08:00:00.000-07:00

Well, four days with a severe cold, one week working on a house and one day (and counting!) of a crazy neck kink have kept me from blogging...my apologies! Luckily things are quiet on campus. This week, President Lunsford announced that LETU staff would begin 4-day weeks for summer. This is an attempt to help LETU employees defray rising gas costs - isn't it wonderful that our President and Cabinet are so conscientious? It certainly is a blessing to work here.

In other news, I am still figuring out how to download photos from my camera and will add some cool shots soon!

In Memoriam

2008-05-07T14:35:00.000-07:00

Message from President Lunsford:

One of the university's beloved first ladies has left us for her eternal home.

You will want to join me in mourning the loss of former first lady Edith Hardwick, 91, who died peacefully in her sleep early Friday morning, May 2. She was the widow of LETU's first chancellor, Dr. Harry Hardwick, who served as president of the university from 1968 to 1975. During the Hardwicks' service, the university first gained SACS accreditation (1970) and built the B.A. Skipper Dining Hall (1970), Margaret Estes Learning Resource Center (1974) and Memorial Student Center (1975). Mrs. Hardwick had moved from her home in Longview to Coon Rapids, MN, in 2004.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that memorial gifts be made to LeTourneau University student scholarships.

Dale Lunsford
President

Its quiet...

2008-05-05T14:25:00.000-07:00

The student body has packed up, cleaned up and moved on out. It is quiet. Too quiet. And I can't wait for August until they all come back - en masse, to delight and challenge us once more!

For those of you left here in Longview, I would like to pass on a few of my favorite places to dine and shop - kudos to these vendors who get an A from me for customer service and quality. (These are the opinions of the writer, and do not necessarily reflect anyone elses.)

That Girl Boutique (Downtown Longview)
- cute and reasonably priced clothes for gals; awesome sales

Deb's Diner (Downtown Longview)
- fast and reasonably priced lunch

Mario's Mexican Bistro (Judson and the Loop)
- fresh Mexican fare

Have a great Monday everyone!

With a THUNDEROUS NOISE...

2008-05-02T12:11:00.000-07:00

...the academic year came to an end. The sky darkened around 9AM and for an hour or so, we were cloistered in safety. Waiting. The alarms were ringing to an auspicious beginning - commencement less than 24-hours away. Sitting in the quiet, listening to the murmuring around me, I thought back to my commencement, eleven years ago...and a small little poem wound its way up from my memory. I pass it on to our graduating class...

If
If you can keep your head when all about you
Are losing theirs and blaming it on you,
If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you,
But make allowance for their doubting too;
If you can wait and not be tired by waiting,
Or being lied about, don't deal in lies,
Or being hated don't give way to hating,
And yet don't look too good, nor talk too wise:

If you can dream - and not make dreams your master;
If you can think - and not make thoughts your aim,
If you can meet with Triumph and Disaster
And treat those two imposters just the same;
If you can bear to hear the truth you've spoken
Twisted by knaves to make a trap for fools,
Or watch the things you gave your life to, broken,
And stoop and build 'em up with worn out tools:

If you can make one heap of all your winnings
And risk it on one turn of pitch-and-toss,
And lose, and start again at your beginnings
And never breathe a word about your loss;
If you can force your heart and nerve and sinew
To serve your turn long after they are gone,
And so hold on when there is nothing in you
Except the Will which says to them; "Hold on!"

If you can talk with crowds and keep your virtue,
Or walk with Kings - nor lose the common touch,
If neither foes nor loving friends can hurt you,
If all men count with you, but none too much;
If you can fill the unforgiving minute
With sixty seconds' worth of distance run,
Yours is the Earth and everything that's in it,
And - which is more - you'll be a Man, my son!

-R.K.

Congratulations to the CLASS OF 2008!!!

Alotta alotta

2008-04-29T14:39:00.000-07:00

The conversation came up today during lunch regarding the rigours of being at LeTourneau...and how despite the class load, our students manage to be very socially conscious and involved! Here are just a few of the organizations that help make the LeTourneau the BEST!!!!

Yellow Jacket Activities Council (YAC)
LeTourneau Student Ministries (LSM)
Photography Club
Association for Computing Machinery
Intersociety Council
Automotive Society
2 C.A.R.E. Council
Commuter Club
Project Ethiopia
LeTourneau Singers
Stage Right
Tea Enthusiasts Association
Radio Club
Juggling Club
Webb Historical Society
Socratic Forum
Water Polo Club

As you can see, our students find a ton of fun ways to connect, make friends and let off some steam!

Letting Off Some Steam

2008-04-28T12:10:00.000-07:00

It is finals week at LeTourneau...the dining room is quiet, the students are overwhelmed as the year winds down. One of the great traditions at LeTourneau is the annual destruction of an old car. This tradition serves three purposes:

1. Lets off steam and anxiety and stress.
2. Raises for money for the LETU Auto Society.
3. Gives student the opportunity to let off steam and anxiety and stress. (Yes, this is so important we list it twice!)

The guys taking the money are even gentlemen enough to let the gals have a go for free. There you have it!

How Can You Pray: Please pray for our students as they struggle through this last week of the year. Pray for them hard.

Advancement Weight Loss

2008-04-28T08:21:00.000-07:00

The LeTourneau Advancement Office continues on its quest to lose weight, be more active and get more healthy! As a group, we have lost a total of 65 pounds - bringing us a bit closer to better health. Have you been treating your heart and body right? If not, skip the fast food lunch today and get some fresh fruit and cheese from your local grocer instead! You'll be happy you did.

For Your Viewing Pleasure...

2008-04-23T11:50:00.000-07:00

Kris Erickson (Annual Fund Director) and I (Director of Alumni and Parent Relations) have been staring at our computers too long...crunching too many numbers...proofing too many proofs...here is the PROOF!!!!

LETU Leading Ladies Luncheon Success

2008-04-23T09:08:00.000-07:00

We had a very successful Leading Ladies Luncheon...over 124 East Texas women came to support scholarships for LETU students. Our speaker, Mary Whelchel delighted attendees with "Lifestyle Gardening", a portion of which is below. We hope that you will join us for the Leading Ladies Luncheon 2009!

"How Does Your Garden Grow" by Mary Whelchel

For your "Lifestyle Garden," you need:
Three rows of peas:
"Peas" of soul Romans 5:1
"Peas" of mind Phillipians 4:7
"Peas" of heart Colossians 3:15
Three rows of squash:
Squash gossip Ephesians 4:29
Squash indifference Romans 12:11
Squash selfishness Mark 8:34-35
Three rows of lettuce:
"Lettuce" be faithful Galatians 6:9
"Lettuce" be pure Romans 13:12 -13
"Lettuce" love one another John 13:35

To find out more about Mary Whelchel, who serves on the LETU Board of Trustees, please visit her website, The Christian Working Woman. Many blessings to you all!!

For the Longview Newsjournal Article, click here.

LETU Alumni Association Meet-N-Greet

2008-04-21T12:30:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday, LETU Alumni met in Dallas to mingle and talk business. Brad Erickstad, LETU Alumnus, was our featured speaker regarding Oil&Gas Workforce Development in the Dallas area. We hope tha you will join us for our next LETU Alumni Association Meet-N-Greet!

Starlight Soiree Pics

2008-04-21T09:09:00.000-07:00

Homecoming LETU Starlight Soiree
2008

Starlight Soiree 2008 Photos

2008-04-17T15:18:00.001-07:00

Other great shots from the Starlight Soiree!

My WONDERFUL, BEAUTIFUL HUSBAND!!! The biggest blessing in my life. :)

Silence

2008-04-15T12:46:00.000-07:00

Driving in to work this morning, this song filtered through the car radio : The Sounds of Silence. And you will have to forgive me for my lack of an engineering or mathematical mind...I did get my degree in History afterall, and straight edges never held for me much of a draw. So, through natural inclination, poems and lyrics line the places where I walk and so the words of the prophets are written on the subway walls And tenement halls stay with me all day...songs have such a beautiful way of transporting us, transforming us. Lyrics quietly nest in our mind and stay...but today I leave you with a poem by a new poet to me, A.E. Stallings. I hope you enjoy and think on the differences...

Extinction of Silence
by A.E. Stallings

That it was shy when alive goes without saying.
We know it vanished at the sound of voices
Or footsteps. It took wing at the slightest noises,
Though it could be approached by someone praying.
We have no recordings of it, though of course
In the basement of the Museum, we have some stuffed
Moth-eaten specimens—the Lesser Ruffed
And Yellow Spotted—filed in narrow drawers.
But its song is lost. If it was related to
A species of Quiet, or of another feather,
No researcher can know. Not even whether
A breeding pair still nests deep in the bayou,
Where legend has it some once common bird
Decades ago was first not seen, not heard.

Austin LETU Alumni

2008-04-14T12:19:00.000-07:00

We had a great meet-and-greet with Austin area alumni this Friday past. Thanks to the Austin campus for being such great hosts and serving such yummy delights. The Office of Alumni and Parent Relations hopes to have many more forays into the Austin area. If you are an LETU alumnus and want to get connected, please visit http://mycommunity.letu.edu/NetCommunity/Page.aspx?pid=183&srcid=-2 to enroll in the LETUonly online social community or you can also join the LETU Alumni Association Facebook group. Hope to see you at our next event.

2008 Rube Goldberg

2008-04-10T15:02:00.000-07:00

Hello friends! I am going out of town for our Austin event tomorrow (April 11th) and thought to leave you with this tid-bit about the 2008 Rube Goldbergs at LeTourneau. What, pray tell, is a Rube Goldberg you may ask? Well, although I went to LETU I had no idea either...a regular Rube Goldberg is a way of "complexifying" a very simple task, say, turning on a light but in FIFTY steps. An LETU Rube Goldberg is a challenge to our students to live up to this "complexifying". The competing students prep for weeks and we get to see it all go up in smoke, water and mayhem in a matter of seconds. Here are some great shots from today's Rube Goldbergs.

The Calm...

2008-04-08T07:02:00.001-07:00

...after a Hootenanny Storm! It was an AWESOME Homecoming! We had a really great time, and will post photos soon! Both here and on the website.

Saturday night's Starlight Soiree was BEAUTIFUL...everyone came out dressed to the nines - the ladies looked lovely and the gentlemen were all very dashing, lending their coats when the breeze turned a bit colder. It was a reminder of a more genteel time when folks had good manners and getting together, just for the sake of getting together, was enough. We hope you will join us for Homecoming 2009 at LeTourneau (April 3 and 4, 2009).

In other GREAT news, Mr. and Mrs. Christian Lehman have welcomed Samuel Lehman into not only their hearts but also bless the LeTourneau family by allowing all of us to hold him and play with him! Samuel is a very, very good baby. :)

HOMECOMING 2008

2008-04-02T15:26:00.000-07:00

Fabulosity. Def.: Saturday night at the Starlight Soiree. See you there at 9PM Alumni and LETU students...be fabulous, enjoy some great music and mingle under the starlight! (Since this is Homecoming week we are SWAMPED at the office...no more posts this week...but new posts with FANTABULOUS photos will be up next week! Ciao!)

GPS...

2008-03-28T12:50:00.000-07:00

So I drive up to campus this ayem and find LETU students walking the fields, the streets, trolling the buildings with little cameras. SWEET! "We have a film class on campus," me thinks. Alas, those were not film cameras...they were some sort of GPS contraption that LETU students were using for...they tried to explain it to me, but now, five hours post conversation, I can barely recall their explanation. Must have been cool though because I remember being very impressed by their response this morning. Ingenuity at work once again!

Homecoming 2008

2008-03-26T15:01:00.000-07:00

is it really Wed already? Time does fly as we prep for LeTourneau's Homecoming (April 4 &5). If you are an LETU alumnus, you are invited to join us for the festivities including Hootenanny on Friday night (4th) and the Starlight Soiree (April 5th). Hope to see you there!

Baby News

2008-03-24T08:15:00.001-07:00

Every week, the Alumni office receives emails and/or letters withnews of Baby Jackets! We are always thrilled when we receive photos and names and stats of the newest members to the LeTourneau family...it is always a joy and one of my favorite parts of the "job." Babies abound this year - my friend Mari had baby Ella, my cousin Mary Beth had Mamia and both my friends Carmen and Pamela are expecting! (Carmen is due like yesterday, Pamela later on this summer.) Babies are a beautiful reminder of this circle of life!

How can you pray today: Pray for all expectant mothers and fathers, for brothers and sisters and for the new arrivals. Pray that God will grant them health and healing, some sleep and the opportunity to know Jesus as their Lord and Savior.

Easter

2008-03-20T07:20:00.000-07:00

The Word, in Prophesy, became Flesh - tangible fact. Many Easter blessings to you and yours during this, one of the most important of Christian holy days.

How can you pray today: Easter and Christmas are two holy days that bring many folks to church who otherwise would not worship. Please pray for these visitors to the faith - that God may have a special message for them this Easter Sunday.

Something cute!

2008-03-18T14:11:00.000-07:00

This is ONE happy turtle...courtesy of my hubby, who passed on this award winning photo. (I don't know who took the photo...sorry...)

Colorado Alumni - President Lunsford Trip

2008-03-17T12:40:00.000-07:00

We started off our March Madness with a trip to Colorado...it was madness indeed as we landed when the temperature was 52 degrees and woke up the next day to 29 degrees and half a foot of snow!

We had a great time with local alumni....can't wait to see them soon!

California Alumni - President Lunsford

2008-03-17T12:31:00.001-07:00

President Lunsford, Jim Hughey and I were warmly welcomed by LETU Alumni, Parents and Friends in California. We held a reception introducing President Lunsford in Brea, California and had standing room only! We hope you will join us on our next jaunt. :)

We had some great folks from the class of 58 come out!

Below are the winners from our "The New Prez" Quiz. Congrats guys!

LeTourneau Mission Trip

2008-03-11T11:31:00.001-07:00

It is quiet on campus...spring break has brought the ambling of buses and vans away from campus, quiet empty halls and a peaceful standstill to an otherwise busy space. While the tradition in other schools might be to hit the beach for spring break, at LeTourneau, a great number of the student body heads out on missions all over the us, the continent, the world. Our students reach out through construction projects and medical missions, providing not only for the physical needs of the people the serve but also seeking to make an eternal difference.

How Can You Pray Today: Please pray for the physical, spiritual and mental safety for all LeTourneau students, faculty and staff that are partaking in spring break missions.

Homecoming 2008 Riddle

2008-03-04T14:59:00.000-08:00

Burnt umber, green and gold
Following the lions roar
Fools the moon's monthly route
Quietly hidden in the mouth

Around the states...

2008-03-03T13:21:00.000-08:00

President Lunsford and Jim Hughey (our V.P. of Advancement) are in Phoenix, AZ. On March 13 we head to Colorado for a visit with local alumni, friends and parents. On March 14, we will host an event for our friends, alumni and LeTourneau family in southern California. On April 11th I will visit Austin to meet alumni and current students and then on April 19th I will visit Dallas to meet our LeTourneau family there. It is going to be one whirlwind spring! If you are a LeTourneau parent, alumni, friend or student, please join us at any of these events! It will be good to see you...

How Can You Pray Today: Please pray for travel safety as we continue to reach out to our LeTourneau family all around the US of A. :)

How It All Adds Up

2008-02-29T14:25:00.000-08:00

In beginning our Wellness Challenge for the LeTourneau Advancement Office the majority of the office went to have our body fat percentage analyzed. Wow. What was once a group of laughing people has been quieted with THE KNOWLEDGE that we really, truly need to get rid of that spare tire...it really is a little quieter this afternoon as the consequence of years of mindless eating settles in. Our Wellness Challenge begins tomorrow...it is a good thing that food in the Skipper Dining Hall offers healthy options. From a soup and salad bar to the healthy entree of the day, we all hope to be more conscious of how treat our bodies.

How You Can Pray: While we see the effects of overabundance in the weight scale, we cannot fail to think of those who have no food and for whom survival is an everyday reality. Please pray today for our missionaries that are struggling to make ends meet. Pray that God would provide the physical food they need and the spiritual food they crave.

Brrrrrrrr!

2008-02-27T14:25:00.000-08:00

Well, our Texas winter is having one last HURRAH...it was about 32 this AM and it has slowly crept up during the day...its nippy and chilly and perfect for tennis. At LeTourneau we are blessed with the awesome Solheim Center...whether you want to play tennis or run indoors or swim in the middle of winter, the Solheim has it all. I personally partake of the pilates classes, the treadmill and my hubby and I "play" at tennis. Lots of running around involved, chasing the ball, so I guess we are getting good cardio. If you are an alumnus of LeTourneau, you can get a membership for your whole family or use it for the day when you visit. So check out the Solheim next time you are in town! And visit my friend, the trusty ol'treadmill.

How Can You Pray Today: In the same way that some punish their bodies through deprivation, other hurt their bodies through gluttony. Please pray for those that see "food" as their god, that they may seek moderation and place God first.

The Bandit Strikes Again!

2008-02-26T06:32:00.000-08:00

Kris Erickson, Annual Fund Director at LeTourneau University has many, many admirers. However, in true LeTourneau fashion, these admirers do not quite know how to express said admiration...and instead speak through "streamer cobwebs" and rock formations. Hey, whatever works for you!

Being Healthy

2008-02-26T06:23:00.000-08:00

The Advancement Office of LeTourneau has decided to partake in a 90-day Wellness Challenge. The goal is to better our WHOLE selves - mind, body and soul. We are signing contracts and agree to 1) a daily devotional, quiet time, 2) read one non-work related book, 3) exercise three times a week and 4) eat a healthier diet. So, folks are giving up Starbucks or Grandy's or chocolate...and seeking moderation instead. Wish us luck! The winner gets a gift certificate to a nice restaurant...nooooo, just kidding. The winner gets something fun, like a spa day or golf lessons.

The LeTourneau Experience: So, what is the Advancement Office? Well in the Advancement Office we raise funds for the entire university. Tuition alone does not cover all the cost of having a world-class university, and therefore we at the Advancement Office work with individuals, foundations, corporations and governmental entities to ensure that LeTourneau recieves the monetary support it needs to provide the best education for our students.

How Can You Pray Today: Sometimes, we make food or body image our god. Pray for those that put these things before the one True God - that they may see themselves in his image and therefore care and tend for their minds, bodies and souls more carefully.

Recipe of the Day:
Cook two chicken breasts. Set aside. Mix 1/2 cup low-fat mayo, 1 cup low-fat sourcream, juice of three lemons and two tablespoons of fresh cut dill. Cube chicken breasts and add to mayo mixture. Serve over salad greens with good crusty bread. Enjoy! (Serves 4)

Have you heard...

2008-02-20T13:45:00.000-08:00

Doyle Dykes came to the Belcher Center this past Friday. He rocked the house...he peppered in a little Coldplay, a little U2, a little soul and a little funk. It was great! At one point or another, we all wondered: how DOES he make the guitar do THAT? It was unbelievable. If you are not familiar with Doyle, you need to check him out! (www.doyledykes.com)

Doyle’s daughter, Haley also took to the stage and tore the roof off! Playing the mandolin like it was nobody's business she also possesses a throaty voice reminiscent of the dames of the 30s and 40s. She also writes her own songs and the feeling behind every lyric draws you in. Check out Haley and her skills at www.haleymusic.net.

How can you pray today? Pray that we be reminded that God has gifted us uniquely and that we are to pursue those gifts – sacrificing time and energy to practice more, to get better, to become the best we can be and all to his Glory.

LETU Parent Weekend

2008-02-18T08:19:00.000-08:00

LeTourneau parents and family came for a brief visit this past weekend. We had some rain on Saturday but most of it held off until the night. On Saturday morning, the parents met at the Speer Chapel for a prayer and praise service. We were led in workship by Benjamin Muir, who played the guitar beautifully. (Benjamin will be a LeTourneau freshman next year! YAY!!!) It was peaceful to pray together and to know that these parents, grandparents and siblings remember LeTourneau in their prayers on a daily basis! Next year's Parent & Family Weekend is on Feb. 13 and 14, 2008.

How Can you Pray Today: Please continue to pray for the safety of our students and campus - both spiritual and physical safety.

St. Valentine

2008-02-14T06:26:00.000-08:00

True, there is too much hype around Valentine's Day...but then, its always good to say a sweet word to your friends, spouse, or parents. If you want to get creative this year, why not adopt any one of these international traditions:

Denmark: Exchange silly love poems.
Japan: Homemade chocolates are called hon-mei.
Scotland: “Valentines”are sent anonymously.
LeTourneau: roses are sold on campus.

How you can pray today: Please pray for all the parents and family that are traveling to Longview for Parent & Family Weekend. They are coming here to show their "valentine" a little love!

WOOOOHOOOO!

2008-02-12T09:24:00.000-08:00

The temperature at LeTourneau has dropped about twenty degrees in the last couple of hours! We are supposed to hit a chili 31degrees tonight - which is beautifully crisp. The temperature should warm up for Parent & Family Weekend this Friday and Saturday...we have over 50 parents attending this year. We are so excited to meet them and tell them all about LeTourneau and what is going on! (For this reason, there will be no blog on Friday...sorry!)

The LeTourneau Experience: I spoke today at the LeTourneau Teacher Faculty Organization (TFO). It was daunting to stand in front of all those professors...I started speaking too fast, I think I said "um" too many times and I said a prayer of blessing for all the students that have to do presentations!

How You Can Pray Today: In my devotional this morning, I was reminded to pray for those who see God as one who only punishes...Pray for these individuals that they may see that while God is indeed just and holy, he is merciful and has provided a way for us to be reconciled to him.

Something fun: Today is our Randy's Birthday! (Randy is our Director of Foundation and Corporate Relations.) I will post a photo soon.

Heritage Weekend 2008

2008-02-08T15:11:00.000-08:00

LeTourneau University. February 8, 2008. The creme de la creme descend upon campus to compete in Heritage Weekend, LeTourneau's vehicle to discover and reward top students with scholarships. Highschool students in suits and ties nervously await the next round of interviews and pray that their competition essays receive high scores! Do you need something for which to be thankful? One look in their terrified eyes and God got my "thank you I've graduated!" all day long...

The LeTourneau Experience: Have you been to the S.E.Belcher Jr. Chapel and Performance Center? It's awesome...best acoustics you will find! And some of the friendliest staff as well - from ushers to the boxoffice, you'll be treated to a smile. The Belcher Center hosted The Annie Moses Band last night...if you have not heard this group, you are missing out! Check them out! For more events, visit www.belchercenter.com.

How Can You Pray Today: Please pray for our Heritage Weekend participants. It is a stressful time for them and many have traveled far to attend this scholarship event. Please pray for traveling mercies as they head home on Sunday.

35 Seconds

2008-02-06T07:00:00.001-08:00

LeTourneau University stands united today in prayer and thanksgiving with Union University in Tennessee. For 35 seconds, tornados tore through the Union campus and left it in shambles...and shining trough it all is God's grace and mercy. All Union students survived and when you look at the photos of campus, you wonder how??? And God's omnipotence shines through...we know this, "all things work for good for them that love the Lord." His hand of protection and provision over the Union student body and staff is a miracle and we would all be fools not to bow down and worship him.

How can you pray today? Many area residents were killed or injured in last night's storms, many lost their houses and possessions. Please pray that through it all they might feel God's peace...that if they do not know Jesus Christ as their savior or that if they have moved away from him, that this moment might draw them near. May God continue to bless Union University family in the weeks of rebuilding ahead.

Another week begins...

2008-02-04T09:26:00.000-08:00

...and it is hard to believe that January is already behind us and February is barreling ahead. The spring term is a busy one on campus as we host Heritage Weekend, Parents Weekend and Hootenanny...This April, we also begin celebrating Homecoming the same weekend as Hootenanny. Some have asked me why we moved Homecoming from the fall to April and the answer is quite simple: we wanted our alumni and friends to enjoy Hootenanny and rope-pull and all the other events we have on campus! If you would like to join us for homecoming, you can register and get more information at our website http://www.letu.edu/ under "Alumni." We hope you will join us in making this Homecoming one of the best yet!

How you can pray today: Pray for our LeTourneau Alumni and family who are missionaries around the world. Pray for God's continued protection and provision for them.

How 'bout a cold one?

2008-01-30T13:23:00.001-08:00

It was a brisk 27 degrees this morning. Beautiful and bright - the kind of day that poets immortalize in a simple haiku. I immortalized today in my mind by taking a long walk around campus and resting under the trees. I thanked God for giving us Bud Austin, who had the foresight to plant graceful trees to beautify our campus.

The LeTourneau Experience: Days like this make me think back to when I was a student and used to “study” on the greenness of quad, warmed by the sun. Back then, I thought time was so limited – I just didn’t understand the freedom of having a free hour or two during the day. Time when you could take a nap under the trees…or sit on the berm and do nothing. What a luxury. Today, I sit quietly with my husband and we revel in the idea of dusk settling in over us.

How You Can Pray Today: Our LeTourneau community is sometimes too rushed, too busy. Pray that we will take the time to enjoy the little treasures God sends us – like napping under a tree, a starry night or holding the hand of someone you love.

Something beautiful:

“Instantes”
Sólo éste ahora es mío
este momento
el pasado escapó
y no vislumbro el rostro
del futuro.
Claribel Alegria

Mission Emphasis Week '08

2008-01-28T07:19:00.000-08:00

Mission Emphasis week kicked off last night with Prayer and Praise at the Speer Chapel. The Speer Chapel is the only WWII structure that remains on campus. This humble chapel has and will continue to play a memorable part in many LeTourneau memories. Every year, the Speer Chapel is a place of celebration for marriage ceremonies. Students also meet every Sunday for Prayer and Praise, a student-led worship service. In 2007, the Speer Chapel served as the place for Dr. Lunsford's inaugural vigil - a 24 hour prayer circle asking God's guidance, blessing and wisdom for the 6th President of LeTourneau University.

The LeTourneau Experience: For me, the Speer Chapel has always been a place of rest. A place where you can go and pray quietly. Where you can thank God for all his mercy or ask him to explain an unanswered prayer. It has always been a holy place where you can unburden your spirit, where you can cry, where you can worship aloud and where you can feel God holding your hand.

How can you pray today? Our students, our faculty and our staff carry many burdens. Some are shared during devotionals; some are only shared with the Lord. Please pray that our students, faculty and staff will always find a quiet place on the LeTourneau campus where they can meet God and feel his love for them.

Something Fun:
“Fashionista of the Week.” def.: an individual who exhibits great (or questionable!) taste and style, and has the panache to carry it off.
Our Fashionista of the Week is Jim Hughey, Vice President for Advancement. Jim gets the Advancement Fashionista award due to his understated use of neutrals paired with his borrowed Irish cap...which he actually borrowed from Randy Yeakley, Director for Corporate and Foundation Relations. We hope Randy sees his hat again.

"Its a dreary, wintry kind of day, Pooh."

2008-01-25T06:25:00.000-08:00

To quote a great bard of our day:

The more it snows (Tiddely pom),

The more it goes (Tiddely pom),
The more it goes (Tiddely pom),

On snowing. And nobody knows (Tiddely pom),

How cold my toes (Tiddely pom),

How cold my toes (Tiddely pom),Are growing.

Winnie the Pooh, "The House at Pooh Corner"

It is indeed a wintry, blustery day at LeTourneau. Students duck in and out of classes, chins close to the chest, mittens, hats and scarves in dissaray from the wind and rain. (Could it snow today???)

The LETU Experience: This is Mission Emphasis Week. All around campus, missionaries from the all over the globe have an opportunity to speak to our students.

How can you pray today? Pray for our missionaries all over the world. Pray for our students, that they may see the vision of Pop LeTourneau - you can be a businesman, a trucker or a teacher, and serve God's kingdom. Our community is our mission field.

Something fun:

Today is Kris Erickson's Birthday. Kris is a LeTourneau Alumnus ('06) and is our new Director of the Annual Fund. Kris has a heart for our students and as you can see from the photo, the students appreciate her VERY VERY much. HAPPY BIRTHDAY KRIS!

First Days...

2008-01-24T08:24:00.000-08:00

Hello and welcome! I hope this blog will be a useful site for you to see what is going on on campus ... camera always at the ready, we will keep updating photos of school happenings. Stay connected and enjoy!

The LETU experience: I remember LETU Professor LetaFae Arnold quoting 1 Timothy 4:12..."Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity." I look on the current students and want to shout it out to them, to encourage them and to see them, 10 years from now - where has God placed you? What mistakes have you made? How much have you grown? Will you share that with the new LeTourneau students? Will you share it with our elders?

Here's hoping that this blog helps all keep connected to LETU.

Something beautiful...Lyrics by Sarah Brightman for an instrumental written by the composer Ennio Morricone for the film 'The Mission'...

Nella fantasia io vedo un mondo giusto,
Li tutti vivono in pace e in onestà.
Io sogno d'anime che sono sempre libere,
Come le nuvole che volano,
Pien' d'umanità in fondo all'anima.
Nella fantasia io vedo un mondo chiaro,
Li anche la notte è meno oscura.
Io sogno d'anime che sono sempre libere,
Come le nuvole che volano.
Nella fantasia esiste un vento caldo,
Che soffia sulle città, come amico.
Io sogno d'anime che sono sempre libere,
Come le nuvole che volano,
Pien' d'umanità in fondo all'anima.